Top Requested Features in Today’s Homes

April 9, 2018

Open concept. Lots of natural light. Environmentally conscious. Most people have specific ideas when it comes to their dream home. Big-ticket items are important, but in many cases, it’s the simple things that can make everyday life much more convenient.

According to Professional Builder magazine, these are some top-requested items in a new home:

Open Floor PlansOpen concept home designs continue to be a must-have among people buying new homes . Spacious great rooms, which combine kitchen, dining and living areas, makes homes look larger and encourage interaction among family and friends. With open sight lines, parents can easily keep an eye on kiddos while they are busy with meal prep or visit with friends while entertaining.

Flexible SpacesToday’s homeowners want rooms that can be used in a variety of ways, depending on current and future needs of the family. A spare room can serve as a guest room, home office, nursery or craft room. If a room allows for transition, families can make necessary changes as their needs transform.

Large Kitchen IslandsIf the kitchen is the center of the home, the island is the center of the kitchen. Here, kids tackle their homework, meals and school lunches are prepared and families and visitors congregate. Islands can include sinks, stovetops, tons of storage and even pullout trash bins.

A Dedicated PantryA spacious, walk-in pantry is paramount for busy, active households. Built-in spice racks, open shelving and ample storage make finding what you need a breeze.

Roomy, Walk-in Showers
Most homeowners are looking for a thoughtfully designed, comfortable shower in their bathrooms. Wish lists include spa-esque showers with attractive, decorative tile, multiple or rain showerheads , ledges for soaps and shampoos and even benches.

MudroomsSoccer games to soggy weather, a mudroom is another top request to make coming home more convenient. Usually located near the garage, a pick-up and drop-off station helps keep everyone organized. Spaces with hooks, cubbies and cabinets help keep backpacks, rain boots and athletic gear corralled.

Energy EfficiencyBeing kind to the planet is a priority for many people. Plus, homeowners know that buying an energy-efficient home will save money on utility bills. Look for designs that include energy efficient features such as double pane, low E windows, programmable thermostats, plenty of insulation, LED lighting and Energy Star appliances.

Ample Electrical OutletsIt’s a wired world, and homeowners are looking for plenty of outlets to plug in and recharge devices. There should be numerous outlets in each room. Homebuyers also request outlets outside near roof soffits to plug in Christmas lights, in bathroom drawers for hair dryers and flat irons and outside within outdoor kitchens.

Pet AccommodationsFluffy and Fido are members of the family and deserve only the best. Pet owners are asking for electronic sensor doggy doors, built-in dog washing stations, litter box spaces and integrated food and water dishes.

Indoor-outdoor SpacesPerfect for Texas entertaining most of the year, people want comfortable outdoor living areas that are connected to the inside by French doors or patio doors that can be opened wide so the indoors flows into the outdoors.

Looking for a new home that offers abundant convenience features? Our New Home Specialist, Kim Bennett, is happy to help! Click here to learn more about our Houston communities or click here to learn more about our Austin communities.